Senk'lip News September 2020

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OKANAGAN INDIAN BAND 12420 Westside Road Vernon BC V1H 2A4 SENK’LIP NEWS September 2020 Comprehensive Safety Strategy survey is online

The Okanagan Indian Band has launched a strength-based approach Comprehensive Safety Strategy and the first element • Sustainability of programs, services and is a survey for all members, which is available online partnerships. now at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6YFZT2H. Specific objectives over the next five years include OKIB recognizes the importance of promoting healing development of a communications strategy to engage and education to our children, youth, and their youth, elders/knowledge keepers, community etc. families who have been impacted by trauma and/or into bringing their voices to this Comprehensive crime. Safety Strategy. We will We invite all Okanagan achieve these goals by: Indian Band members The Comprehensive Safety • Identifying barriers to on and off reserve to Strategy will lay out a clear providing individualized participate in development and community of the Comprehensive path toward greater security solutions Safety Strategy. in community based on • Increasing partnerships OKIB endeavors to develop to strengthen a Comprehensive Safety input from you collaboration and Strategy using a strength- information sharing. based approach, which includes: • Direct services to membership including • Identification of barriers and gaps education, workshops, access to supports that • Provides individualized community solutions help raise public awareness. • Increased partnerships • Development of a safety campaign that will be • Strengthen inter-agency collaboration led by youth. The strategy focuses on: • Sustainability of programs, services, and • Youth violence prevention partnerships that include culture, language • Community mobilization framework and sense of belonging/connection. • Direct interventions that use a client-centered Continued on page 2

OKIB Community Health & Wellness Survey There is a second important survey for members to take. It is the OKIB Community Health & Wellness Survey, which is being run by OKIB Health & Social Development Department to ask community members about your health and well-being, the factors that affect your health and the use and needs of health care services. To read more about the project and to take the survey, please follow the link. The survey can also be printed and returned to the Community Engagement Team. https://okib.ca/departments/community-services-development/health

Register to access member-only content at www.okib.ca Jami Tonasket and Mike Ochoa will work year Comprehensive Safety Strategy, which was collaboratively to support the development of a confirmed in February 2020. Community Comprehensive Safety Strategy. The You can watch a video about the Comprehensive objective is to develop a framework, or model Safety Strategy on the website: https://okib.ca/ of change that is community-driven and a “living departments/community-services-development/ model” that can be adaptive to change. public-safety We will work towards increasing awareness for For further information please contact: parents and family members of programs and services and help for their young people, increase Jami Tonasket: openness, and discussions about challenges Community Safety Coordinator in the community, and strengths that exist in Phone: 236-599-3019 the community to build upon. Cell: 250-540-9037 Email: [email protected] The targeted action items include; regular community engagements, clarifying roles and Mike Ochoa: timelines, setting priorities collectively, grounded Youth Justice Worker plans, and processes in culture. Phone: 236-599-0025 The Government of Canada announced funding Cell: 250-309-0353 for Okanagan Indian Band to support a five- Email: [email protected]

Take the survey now and provide your thoughts: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6YFZT2H

Chief and Council advises OKIB community members to be prepared for a second wave

There has been an increase of confirmed Please follow the advice of health officials and COVID-19 cases in the Okanagan recently. While Chief and Council: it is tempting to get back to our old ways, we • Stay home if you are sick cannot let our hard work and sacrifices over the • past months go to waste. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water Simply stated: We are not over this pandemic. • Stay 2 meters or 6 feet from those We Syilx based upon our history with pandemics outside your social circle understand that we need to remain vigilant and • Keep your groups small pave a new path forward. • Avoid crowded areas, particularly It is important that we continue to think and indoors, and wear a mask act with the needs of our family, friends, and • Stay connected, but stay apart. neighbours in mind. And please, let’s be kind to one another and respect each other’s health decisions.

2 Senk’lip Return to School Plan nk’mápəlqs i snm ̀ am ̀ áyaʔtn i kəl sqilxʷtət Cultural Immersion Program

• The latest indicators suggest that we will and should also become part of daily practice be living in a COVID-19 era for at least the long before school begins. Parents please start next 2-3 years, or until mass, successful, teaching your children hyper- vigilant hygiene vaccination is implemented across the practices. Country. • Children are likely the largest driver of Tentative Re-opening Plan: nk’mápəlqs i snm̀ am̀ community transmission, although least áyaʔtn i kəl sqilxʷtət impacted by COVID-19, therefore it is our responsibility to teach them to become the Teachers will return to work September 8, most responsible in promoting preventative classrooms will be re-organized and prepared for health measures. meeting COVID-19 hygiene protocols. We expect • Many parents are Elders, and will be to commence with an outdoor “on-the-land” vulnerable to community transmission. It is learning cultural and language learning camp for our responsibility to prevent transmission of the week of September 14-18, with regular classes COVID-19 to these caregivers and knowledge to resuming on September 21. The preliminary plan keepers. In addition, many community is to accept all enrolled children from K4-G7. Class members and OKIB staff have compromised enrollment is currently: (K4) 20; (K5) 19; (G1) 12; immune systems and would likely not fare (G2-3) 17; (G4-5) 6; (G6-7) 12 [Total 86]. well with COVID-19, therefore setting school disease prevention standards at a higher level Classes will stay together throughout the day and is important to the health and wellbeing of there will be minimal interaction between classes. OKIB. K4 will be split into a morning group 8:30- • All plans mentioned below will continue to 11:30 (10 students) and an afternoon group evolve as we get closer and enter into the 12:30- 3:30 (10 students). Children will receive new school term. Parents and community will a substantial nutritious snack, but no lunch. continue to receive updates through email and OKIB social media. Change or the ‘new K5 will run all day; however, they will not normal’ will be difficult but vital to the health interact with other students in the Daycare. and welling of this community. The school is currently investigating plans of splitting K5, like K4, into a morning and • Parents and/or caregivers should start afternoon program, with some students teaching/acclimatizing their children to wear remaining throughout the entire day. and care for their masks before school begins Non-medical masks will be required for all in September. This will be especially important children G1 through G7. Children should bring for younger children and those with tactile two-three masks to school each day so that they challenges. Set an example, start wearing a can exchange their mask as they become soiled. mask when out of the house, in-places where Masks will need to be washed and dried each social distancing is difficult. Hyper-regular night. handwashing and cleansing is very important

September 2020 3 Return to School Plan continued

G1-7 will operate full-days, however, if COVID Language and cultural program will be taught becomes worse students can move to a hybrid in small groups (5 students) in the school program on in-class and on-line. Children who or larger groups can be taught outside, on- are sick will be required to stay home and the-land. An outdoor tent will be rented/ complete all assignments and work using their purchased and set-up close to the school for school laptop. outdoor assemblies and larger group classes.

G1 will have the portable to its self and classes Smaller groups can also use the gazebo will run full day, desks will have Plexiglas behind the New Horizon’s Building. installed. The language and cultural teachers Outdoor classrooms will be utilized as much will move into the G4-5 classroom inside the as possible, including the gazebo behind main school building. New Horizon’s, the qwi’ci at Komasket G2-3 will be in the school basement, Plexiglas part (investigate lighting, heating and will be installed around the desks. transportation), and a tent will be erected permanently on the school grounds, including G4-5 will move into the Gr 6-7 classroom, Plexiglas at snc’c’amala?tn. Whenever possible, weather will be installed around the desks. permitting, many of the classes (physical G6-7 will move into the New Horizon’s building education, language and culture) will be taught with Plexiglas installed around the desks. outside. Masks can be removed when outside if social distancing can be maintained.

4 Senk’lip Return to School Plan continued

Twice daily health checks for children and staff their mask while on the bus. Children should will be required to complete a self-assessment enter the bus and move to the next available each morning and their temperature will be seat towards the back of the bus, and whenver taken twice per day (morning and at lunch). If a possible sit in family groups and self-distance. child is sick, even with a common cold, they will The buses/vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned be immediately separated from their learning after each trip (am/pm). group and parents will be called to come and Lunch program will be available to ALL students. pick-up the child immediately. Children must This will involve a nutritious bagged lunch which, remain at home, under quarantine for 14-days, or including traditional foods. School snack and until they have received a negative diagnosis for bagged lunches will be prepared daily in the New COVID- 19 and their symptoms have subsided. Horizon’s kitchen and/or at the Daycare kitchen. Schooling for home is not easy; however, it will Parents must opt into the lunch program at the be imperative to keep children on-track while beginning of the year. Uneaten lunches and snack they recuperate/quarantine at home. Whenever, will be sent home with the children each day. possible teachers will try to record class lessons Longer-term two new portable classrooms to post on-line. Children in quarantine will be will be ordered to replace the New Horizons’ invited to attend some classes through Zoom, at classroom and provide additional classroom appointed times. All children will have a school space for the Gr 2-3 class. The G2-3 basement laptop, and many should now be familiar on room will become a multipurpose room. how to access class lessons online. Parents are responsible for not letting their child fall-behind HVAC air purifications systems are being with their school work. Teachers cannot provide investigated for each classroom. Whenever both in-class and on-line instruction on a regular possible (weather permitting) classroom basis. While we remain in stage 2 teachers will windows will remain open during the school day. operate classroom learning. The school will investigate hiring a daytime Children and parents who do not wish to send cleaner/handyman, to make sure classrooms their children to school will have to investigate and desks are wiped-down 2-3 times per online home-schooling through the Province day. This is in addition to the regular nightly and additional resources can be found through cleaning. First Nations Education Steering Committee Classroom technology will be set-up in the webpage and copies of the revised Story of our new locations, with additional cameras Ways, including teaching curriculum, is available and audio equipment to assist with class for purchase through the Band office. recordings. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education- New staff TBA training/k-12/support/classroom- alternatives/ homeschooling • Elementary teachers, including teacher on- http://www.fnesc.ca/learningfirstpeoples/k-3/ call Elementary Education Assistants (x2) • School cook http://www.fnesc.ca/learningfirstpeoples/

Busing ALL children riding the school bus or in any other school vehicle, which does not allow for social distancing, will be required to wear

September 2020 5 New year, new staff, and new safety protocols

From the Manager, Loraine Laden We will miss Mrs. Alexis and Trish. They were a Closures: snc’c’amala?tn will be closed Monday, great team and really worked hard and cared for September 7 for Labour Day. the students. New School Year New Kindergarten staff Preschool and Kindergarten Mrs. April Alexis has children will be starting resigned as Kindergarten the week of September Teacher. She has been the 14. The teaching staff will teacher for the past 8 years. be returning to school She was the first teacher September 8 to plan and at the Cultural Immersion prepare for a somewhat School for the 2006/2007 different school year. A school year when school lot of thought needs to be opened at the new site put into classroom seating on Bonneau Road with plans, bussing, activities Grades 1 to 4 all in one with consideration for room with one teacher. In social distancing and health, 2004/2005 she filled in for sanitary procedures and Tanya Saddleman-Joe as really all aspects of the Kindergarten Teacher while program to create a learning Tanya was on maternity environment where children leave and she has also and staff feel secure and worked as a teacher on- safe. call at our school. Mrs. Alexis was a wonderful The Kindergarten students conscientious teacher and will be starting out with she always put the students first. gradual entry the week of September 14. This will give the new Kindergarten Teacher and Certified Trish Johnson, the Kindergarten Certified Education Assistant a chance to get to know the Education Assistant, retired over the summer. students a bit, keeping in mind that they will all be Trish will be on call as CEA for Kindergarten and new to our new teaching staff. Grade 1, so you still may see her now and then. She has been the Kindergarten CEA for the past We look forward to this new school year with both 16 years. She started the year we had 22 students excitement and a degree of apprehension as we in Kindergarten. Tanya Saddleman-Joe was the move into this new normal. Kindergarten Teacher at the time. Trish added a lot of life and flair to the classroom. She was interested in all of the children in the centre and went out of her way to greet them.

6 Senk’lip Infant/Toddler Daycare 3 to 5 Year Old Daycare / Head Start Way’ from the Infant Toddler Room! Way! I can’t believe summer has come to an end! Happy August Birthdays We have had a very hard spring and summer with • Jessie COVID-19 but I’m glad everyone has been patient and understanding. Happy September Birthdays • Luxton We would like to welcome Dawn to our Head Start • Thunder room. Autumn will be away from mid September • Emmett to the end of October. We will miss you! Also Jes- • Jack sica will be doing her 2nd ECE Practicum in Sep- tember and October. We will miss her as well. Our friends Luxton Thunder and Emmett all turn We are looking forward to our Head Start program three and will be this fall and to welcoming all the new moving on to the faces. The program start date is Sep- Head Start program; tember 14 and will run Monday to Fri- we wish them all day from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, Mon- the best! day to Friday. If you have a child that This summer has qualifies to be in our 3 year old program been different for please come to the office and fill out us, but we have the registration form. learned to adjust If you have any questions please contact to the new safety Denise at 250-545-3800. protocols and the infants and tod- Limlimp from Denise, Autumn, Jessica dlers have done and Dawn amazing with the Preschool transition. We sing Twinkle Twinkle Preschool will start on Monday, Sep- Little Star with our tember 14 and will operate Monday to hand-washing and it Friday from 9:00 am to noon. The chil- keeps them washing dren will have lunch before they leave longer and makes hand-washing more of a game each day. less of a chore! We are very happy to welcome back Miranda The infants and toddlers have also been busy help- Marchand to the program. Miranda was on an ing Nicole in the garden she made for us to enjoy!! education leave last year and has now graduated Thank you very much Nicole for all your hard work with a certificate in Early Childhood Education. and suppling us a garden to enjoy both develop- Congratulations on your hard work, Miranda! mentally, and of course eat!! Miranda was already wonderful with the children and will now be really amazing! Mary, Kelsey, Theresa and Roberta Karla and Miranda

September 2020 7 ʷu alá kʷu k GGGGG k G G ə G k G G n COVID 19 G í

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A PERSON SUSPECTS THEY MAY HAVE COVID 19 AND HAVE

➡ HAD COVID 19 SYMPTOMS➡ FOR GREATER THAN 24 HOURS.

YES NO ADVICE ADVICE • Begin self-isolation for COVID 19. Go to: • Isolate for those who have respiratory symptoms. (Self Isolation after a COVID 19 Test) Go to (How to Isolate: For those who have http://www.bccdc.ca/resource-gallery/ Respiratory Symptoms) http://www.bccdc.ca/ Documents/Guidelines%20and%20Forms/ Health-Info-Site/Documents/Self-isolation.pdf Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/Epid/ • If symptoms present and/or last longer CD%20Manual/Chapter%201%20-%20CDC/ than 24 hrs, seek testing and begin COVID19-self-isolation-post-testing.pdf self isolation for COVID 19. • Complete testing for COVID 19 by contacting one of the following:

• OKIB COVID 19 Hotline number ➡ 250-241-7595 • IHA: Downtown Primary Care Clinic 250-503-3737 • Family doctor Was the test result positive? ➡➡➡ NO ADVICE • Continue to isolate for respiratory symptoms until YES the following occurs: A nurse either from IHA, Public Health or an OKIB nurse • At least 10 days have passed since the start of will make contact for notification of a positive test result your symptoms, AND and to provide guidance/support. • Your fever is gone without the use of fever- ADVICE reducing medications (e.g. Tylenol, ibuprofen), • Follow guidance of self-isolation and COVID 19. AND Go to https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/hlbc/files/self- • You are feeling better (e.g. improvement in isolation_and_covid-19.pdf cough, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, • Contact OKIB COVID 19 Hotline nurse (if not diarrhea, fatigue) previously done) for assistance and support • Reach out to OKIB COVID Hotline to further teaching • Complete OKIB Family Plan for COVID 19 and/or supports if required • OKIB COVID 19 nurse can provide assistance with plan completion. A plan can be requested by contacting OKIB OKIB COVID 19 HOTLINE COVID 19 Hotline#. 250-241-7595 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, weekdays (not evenings or weekends)

Okanagan Indian Band Okanagan Indian Band Community Services & Development Health T 250-542-5094

8 Senk’lip When Covid 19 is Possible or Suspected: When Covid 19 is Confirmed: A Community Member can access the following A Community Member can access the following available resources/supports by contacting available resources/supports by contacting an OKIB nurse via the OKIB COVID 19 an OKIB nurse via the OKIB COVID 19 Hotline Number: 250-241-7595 Hotline Number: 250-241-7595 • Guidance & teaching as well as informative • Guidance, teaching, and informative literature on literature on COVID 19 infection, prevention, isolating for COVID 19 infection for the purpose and management of COVID 19 of prevention of infection transmission • Guidance, teaching, and informative literature • Guidance, teaching, and informative literature for for protecting vulnerable populations (Elders, contacts of confirmed case/caregivers/household Immunocompromised, etc) from COVID 19 infection members of someone with COVID 19 Infection • Provision of door signs to indicate household • Assistance with completion of OKIB Family Plan COVID 19 caution for entering or indication of a • Wellness calls and checks to assess infection vulnerable person residing within progression and/or need for higher level of • Testing, and assistance with obtaining results medical care or additional supports for COVID 19 at the OKIB Health Centre • Provision of door signs to indicate household caution • Assistance with completion of the for isolation or vulnerable person residing within OKIB Family Plan for COVID 19 • Assistance on acquiring essential needs such as: • Wellness calls/checks by an OKIB nurse for shelter, food and or supplies will be reviewed and monitoring of symptoms and possible illness support can be provided on a case-by-case basis • Teaching on when to seek Health Care Provider support • Teaching of when, and how person is to seek for COVID 19 symptoms or worsening of symptoms medical attention or emergency health services • Assistance, if required, on obtaining transportation to medical attention (Excluding transportation to Vernon Jubilee Hospital Emergency Room as this type of transportation is a medical emergency and requires a 911 call for ambulance services) • Advocacy and support with health care professionals within the Interior Health Authority • Direction on when ending of isolation for COVID 19 is indicated • Directions on when, and if, a person should reach out for further OKIB Supports or to their Health Care Professionals post COVID 19 Infection

If you or someone you know needs help, please call one of the numbers below: • 9-1-1 if you are in an emergency • KUU-US Crisis Line Indigenous crisis line available 24 hours per day: 1-800-588-8717, 1-800-kuu-us17 • 1-800-SUICIDE if you are considering suicide or are concerned about someone who may be: 1-800-784-2433 • 310Mental Health Support for emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health: 310-6789 (no area code needed). • Kid’s Help Phone to speak to a professional counsellor, 24 hours a day: 1-800-668-6868 • Alcohol & Drug Information and Referral Service to find resources and support: 1-800-663-1441 • Victim Services - RCMP available Monday – Friday, 8:30 - 4:30: 250-260-7171 • ONRT – ONA Response Team: Charlotte Whitehead 250-869-9350 | Ali Butler 250-869-1604 • Okanagan Indian Band Health Department: Monday-Friday 8:00-4:30 250-542-5094

OKIB COVID 19 HOTLINE Okanagan Indian Band 250-241-7595 Community Services & Development Health 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, weekdays Okanagan Indian Band T 250-542-5094 (not evenings or weekends)

September 2020 9 Living with Face Masks: How to stow them, reuse disposables, and more A paper bag is good for storage when a mask is not in use, but under the chin is not

Now that wearing a mask to the grocery store, to And of course, pulling the mask down often the mall, to the hairdresser and to school will be a involves touching the front of it, which is not regular occurrence for the next two years or more, recommended, as it could contaminate your a lot of questions have arisen about how it will fit hands. (You should only hold the mask by the ear into our busy lives. loops and wash your hands before and after). Masks have recently become mandatory indoors The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to in many cities across Canada and in entire be transmitted when infectious droplets enter provinces. The Public Health Agency of Canada is through the eyes, nose or mouth. also recommending masks in schools for children over age 10, something that some provinces have Can I hang a mask on my rearview mirror already mandated. between uses? Most of us have a The risk of infection handle on the basics, in most public such as what types places in Canada is of masks there currently low, and are and how to safely if you were wearing put them on and a mask in a low- take them off. That risk environment, said, now that we’re it’s probably out and about while OK to leave wearing masks a lot it hanging from the more than before, mirror overnight to here are the answers wear the next day. to some more That said, it's best questions you might to change and wash have. your mask after Is it safe to pull down my mask and keep it under each use. my chin? How do I stow a mask while on the go? “No, that is probably the worst thing you could The federal government recommends storing do with the mask,” Dr. Zain Chagla, a professor your face mask in a paper bag, envelope, or and infectious disease specialist at McMaster something that won't retain moisture if you will University in Hamilton, said in a recent interview be wearing it again. Kumar notes that a plastic bag with CBC News. isn’t recommended because it keeps moisture in, That’s because it risks getting droplets or germs which could allow bacteria to grow on the mask. on the outside of the mask onto your chin and He says the proper way to way to carry a lower lip, he says. “You’re basically putting all that mask with you is in a paper bag. However, he stuff in your mouth and defeating the purpose of acknowledged this can be awkward, and said wearing a mask.”

10 Senk’lip in places where the risk is low, it’s OK to put the What should I look for when choosing a reusable mask in your pocket. mask? On the other hand, in a higher-risk environment, As masks become a bigger part of daily life, you’ll such as a community with outbreaks, it’s best to probably need more of them — like socks and keep the mask on at all times, even when you’re underwear. Reusable cloth masks are generally outside between buildings. recommended to maintain a supply of disposable, “If you’re putting the mask on and off, it gives you medical masks for essential workers who need more chances to contaminate yourself with it,” he them. says. Given the huge variety of styles and prices, what Can you reuse a disposable mask? How many should you look for? times? Kumar suggests a mask: While cloth masks are designed to be washed and • With multiple layers, as additional layers reused, most medical-style disposable masks are add more protection. (The World Health officially designed for a single use — especially in Organization recommends three layers). higher-risk environments. • With a good fit — the shape doesn’t But Kumar says you can reuse them, especially matter, just the fit, since a tighter fit forces if you’re just out and about in an area with a air through the mask instead of around it. low prevalence of COVID-19. Between uses, he In terms of materials, he recommends cotton, recommends leaving the mask in a paper bag for since viruses remain detectable in some synthetic at least three days. During that time, any virus on materials for a longer time. The World Health the mask will gradually decrease. Organization recommends cotton or other water- He says it would be perfectly reasonable to absorbing materials for the inner layer, but have five to seven masks that are rotated into use recommends synthetic, water-repellent materials on subsequent days. for the outer layer. How many times can you reuse a disposable A higher price doesn’t mean a mask is better, medical-style mask? Kumar says. His favourite cloth mask cost $4. With this type of mask, what you see is what you How many masks shouls your child have for get, so you can reuse it until it’s dirty, worn or school? damaged. N95 masks can also be reused. Alberta, which will require teachers and students Can you clean a disposable mask between uses? in Grade 4 and up to wear masks in schools, is Yes. Medical-style disposable masks can be providing two cloth masks per student. But Dr. steamed or exposed to sunlight to kill the virus Jennifer Kwan, a family physician who advocates more quickly. Experts don’t recommend using wearing face masks in public places to curb cleaners or especially disinfectants on such masks, COVID-19, thinks students will need more to allow as you could end up breathing them in the next time for some to go through the wash. time you use it. She recommends that a child go to school each N95 masks contain filters that can be damaged day with two clean masks and switch to a new one with improper cleaning, but they can be safely after lunch. steamed. Of course, for cloth masks, washing in the laundry is the most effective, easiest thing to do.

September 2020 11 Language & Culture hosts successful Culture Camp; LN Open House happens Sept 3

Season: scaʔa̓qʷ OKIB Language classes for the Language and September: sn̓qaʔtkʷis Culture and Culture & Culture Immersion School staff. Due to COVID-19 it has made it a bit challenging In July, the Language and Culture team and the for language and cultural deliverables especially Cultural Immersion team participated in an at the busiest time for our sqilxw people to be intensive three week nsyilxcen 2 course. out harvesting and preserving. This summer the Language and Culture team worked with our OKIB Community Language classes will be elders and knowledge keepers to create online available in September. Captikwl 1 class will go language and culture learning ahead Monday and Wednesday evenings. Due to tools. pandemic please be prepared for classes to be taught virtually. Amber and Enchechan Cultural Summer Delivery are working Way̓ p isnəqsilxʷ! We have had an amazing with the summer of learning and connecting to our youth (Kacey, sqilxʷ ways! Nahko, Qui and Sapion) As a part of our Summer Learning Program we during the took a group of students up to Sovereign Lake summer to harvest fireweed - it was the perfect day to months be out in the land. While harvesting we were and have able to identify other traditional plants and been making also got to check on the huckleberries in the videos and area. participating in Karen Allison came out to show how to make language and fireweed jelly. limlmt Karen for sharing your culture events. knowledge with us! The videos will be focused on language and culture and will be coming out in the near future. Also, the team has been documenting the take de-construction and the reconstruction of the Komasket Arbour, please watch out for videos on the Okanagan Indian Band Facebook page. The videos the team has been working on is: gathering and canning berries; making fishing spears and traps. Every video has been a learning experience for the team and youth as the Elders / Knowledge Keepers share / teach us more of our cultural ways.

12 Senk’lip Our OKIB Language and Culture Youth Workers, We would like to thank all of our facilitators for alongside our OKIB Language Technician, did an coming out and sharing their knowledge and skills amazing job at hands on learning in the kitchen with community! and also filming the jelly-making process. Language Nest Eric Mitchell led an exploring The Language Nest team is currently working day on the on the programming for the 2020/2021 session. land at Pillar With the COVID-19 our programming may be a Lake while little different this year to adhere to the strict sharing his guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. knowledge and stories. Limlmt Eric! Our team was invited to spend a morning with Barb Marchand, where we got to film and learn about cattail weaving. Everyone went home with a cattail headband, and a new skill. Limlmt to Barb for this experience, and for being such a gracious host Culture Camp 2020 Our Culture and Language team hosted a week long Culture Invitation to Language Nest Open Camp for House community. From LN staff invite everyone to attend our upcoming traditional Open House fish traps September 3, 2020 and carving, to weaving, 5 to 7 p.m. beading, and 11 Victoria Road (IR#1) processing, Everyone is welcome to stop by and meet the staff it was a and Elders and ask any questions you may have on week full of the program. Light refreshments will be provided. hands-on For more information: learning and Language Nest Coordinator traditional Sharmaine Gregoire knowledge. 250-5035593 [email protected]

September 2020 13 A Captikwl Coyote & Salmon as told by Mourning Dove Quintasket

The people were dying from starvation. The great with a string. They were afraid that their little brother monster deities of the warm-land (south) had built a might fall into the Swah-netk’-qha. They did not know mighty dam which had closed the trail of the salmon that as soon as they were gone, the baby would turn coming up the Swah-netk’-qha. This caused the into the Coyote that he was, and, running to the upper people to dance the prayer-dance day after day, night side of the dam, he dug with all his might. He would after night. They wanted to find out how open the dig until he thought it time for his sisters to be going salmon so that their men main source of food might back to the lodge, when he would again be a baby tied come back to the rivers again, might reproduce in the to the tepee pole. mountain streams. Although they prayed and danced, For many sundowns Coyote thus worked in secret. none obtained power to break the dam. One morning he saw that the breaking of the big bride Coyote [Sin-ka’-lip] heard and came to the rescue of was near finishing. When his sisters went down to the famished people. He volunteered to go to the catch the salmon, he took la’-quah (wooden spoon), warm-country and break the bridge of the monsters. put it on his head, and set out to finish his work. As The people were glad. Coyote now changed himself his paws scratched at the dirt, his sisters came back to into a la-ah’-chin (cooking basket or container). He got the tepee. The string was there, but their little brother out upon the water and floated down the Swah-netk’- was gone. Little Snipe cried. They began looking for qha. the baby and found the tracks of Coyote leading down the dam. The sisters hurried to the dam only to find There were two sisters, Snipe [Wil’-weela] and Little Coyote breaking it away. Snipe and her little sister took Snipe [Stur-ek’-kin] who watched the big dam for the sticks and began striking Coyote over the head. But monster-deities. The younger snipe saw the la-ah’-chin Coyote worked all the harder. They could not hurt him first. She wanted to get it, but her sister refused. But for the la’-quah. The sisters in there excitement forgot little Snipe begged all the more, and at last her sister to call the Monsters, and before they knew it, the dam let her swim out and get the la-ah’-chin, the small broke loose. The freed salmon started towards the basket. This made little snipe very glad, and when they snow-country, swarming up the Swah-netk’-qha. returned to their teepe, she used it as her eating dish. Coyote took a staff and began to return journey back When she filled it with salmon, it would become to his own people, bringing with him a great hoard of empty before she knew it. Her sister scolded for being salmon. He traveled for many sundowns; coming to so greedy. Little Snipe quit eating before she had had a branch of the Swah-netk’-qha, he stopped. Leaving enough, setting the la-ah’-chin away with food in it. part of his salmon there, he started up the Okanogan But when she went for it, the food was all gone. It was River with the rest of his heard. He traveled a long always so. It was Coyote who ate the salmon. ways until he came to a branch of the Okanogan. There For many sundowns passed, the sisters grew suspicious he divided his salmon heard, taking part of it up the of the la-ah’-chin. The older sister threw it in the fire. Smilk’-a-meen River. Arriving in the Smilk-a-meen As the basket struck the fire, it turned into a baby boy, (white swan) country, Coyote asked for a wife of the crying. Little Snipe begged her sister to keep the baby tribe, but the woman whom he asked laughed at him. as a little brother. Older sister Snipe refused; but after They said Coyote, We do not eat salmon which is ready many times refusing, she agreed to keep the baby as to die. We are accustomed to eating only the back of a little brother. The sundowns continued to come and necks of the mountain goat.” go, and the baby brother grew rapidly. He was bright This insulted Coyote. He answered them, “You Smilk’- in actions. The Snipe sisters found much pleasure in a-meen people! In the future you will go far to get the playing with the baby. When they went to the damn rotted salmon as you call It.” Coyote now turned back to catch salmon, they would tie him to the tepee pole

14 Senk’lip from the Smilk’-a-meen country, leaving it rough and Coyote spoke angrily, “after this your tribe will rip rocky along the river. He left it so no trail could ever many canoes in reaching where you can eat salmon.” be made available for the people where he traveled. Coyote made the trails mountainous, rough and rocky, Leading his salmon back to the Okanogan, Coyote leaving only a way for canoes to travel down the built a falls in the Smilk’-a-meen above its mouth. The vicious, many rapids of the river whose channel he salmon have never passed these falls. formed. Coyote continued up the Okanogan in search of a Coyote turned back down the Swah-netk’-qha till he wife. As he reached the outlet of the Se’-o-yos (Osyoos came to the mouth of the Spokane, he went up this Lake), he found a tribe of people; he asked for a wife. river to the Kalispel tribe where he asked for a wife. The people being hungry, they gave him a wife and he The Kalispels laughed. They said, “We do not eat let the salmon spawn and hatch in the narrows of the salmon. Our food is the good camas.” lake. The salmon breed their young there to this day. Coyote became angry. He answered the Kalispels, “You Coyote soon grew tired of hisSe’-o-yos wife and, taking will travel far and wear out many moccasins in trading a part of his salmon continued up the Okanogan. your prized camas for salmon.“ Turning back down When he reached the Penticton tribe, he asked for a the river with his salmon, coyote made the falls in the wife and was promised one later. He left a few large river, so the salmon could not pass (Spokane Falls WA). salmon and went on up the Okanogan lake to the Coyote continued back to Swah-netk’-qha; he traveled En-kemp’-leks tribe (Vernon BC). But the En-kemp’- till he came to the En-qha’pet’kqu (Kettle River). leks only laughed when Coyote asked for a wife. This Coyote went up this river in search of a new wife. angered Coyote. He said to them “you will go far and When he reached Insis’-k-chin (Canyon Gulch, Curlew, sore-footed before you get your salmon.” WA) He found a village of people. He asked for a wife. Coyote turned back down the Okanogan, bringing his The people laughed at him. They said, “We do not eat salmon with him. When he reached the Pentictons, his the trotted salmon which is ready to die from making intended wife had another man. Coyote left only the eggs. We eat the fish of the river which is white.” salmon, which strayed off, and came on down to Dog Coyote answered tem, “All right. Your fish will always Lake. There he made a falls (Okanagan Falls BC) leaving be white. But after this they will have many bones the rest of this part of his salmon herd there to breed (squaw fish), and you will travel far to get the salmon. for his Okanogan wife, coyote went back to the Swah- Coyote turned back down the river with his herd of netk’-qha where the largest of his salmon were. There salmon. He built the high falls on the En-qha’-pet’kqu is why no salmon reach the Smilkameen and En-kemp’- (Cascades BC). No salmon has ever passed these falls. leks people, while Penticton have only a few strays to spawn for them. Coyote reached Swah-netk’-qha where he made a great waterfall (Kettle Falls) for his salmon. He did Coyote now traveled up the Swah-netk’-qha, leading this after the people there had given him a handsome his herd of bi salmon towards the snow country. He maiden as a wife. A large encampment, a big village, came to the Sanpoil River. He traveled up this river for was built at the falls. Coyote said to these friends a ways when he found an encampment of people. He “After this, people will come from the different tribes asked the people for a wife, and they gave him a young to beg salmon of you. They will bring many kinds of maiden. Coyote was pleased. He stopped the salmon, food to trade for you salmon.” part of the big red kind to spawn and hatch there. Thus the Sanpoil tribe still enjoy the best of salmon as food. Soon Coyote forgot his charges, the salmon, and went on his way in search of more adventures, he left his But Coyote grew tired of his Sanpoil wife and, taking salmon at the great Swah-netk’-qha falls to come and part of his salmon, continued snow-ward, the Swah- make eggs there each year, left them there where the netk’-qha. He came to the arrow lakes, where he found people traveled from distant places to catch salmon as the arrow tribe. Coyote asked for a wife, but the arrow they come up from the big water. It has been so since people laughed at him. They said, “We do not care for Coyote broke the great dam of the monster deities of salmon. Our food is the good porcupine, which only the big waters (ocean) back in the time of the animal the great mountains give us.” people.

September 2020 15 Are you interested in learning nsyilxcn? Course follows the Paul Creek Curriculum as a beginner course in Colville-Okanagan Salish. CAPTIKWL 1 Nselxcin 1 recommended. Monday and• Wednesday Nights Due to pandemic, be prepared 5:30 to 7: 30 p.m. for classes to be taught virtually. For more information or to sign Beginning September 9, 2020 up contact languageinstructor@ okanagan.org I

ksC ̓qʷliw̓ ̓ntm̓ iʔ ̌xʷe ̌xʷ ̓ƛmiɬp “We are going to pick Indian Tea”

OKIB Members, please join us to harvest Indian Tea- October 3, 2020 9:30 a.m.

We will meet and leave from CIS School (Six Mile).

Please bring: • Appropriate clothing for weather and harvesting For more information or to sign up contact: • Lawn chairs [email protected] more information contact the • Baskets or bags Language and Culture team @ • Snacks and lunches 250-503-5593 • Water

16 Senk’lip Salmon distribution was a hands-on event The FSI team wth help from the TSD staff Thanks to all who volunteered and participated distributed approximately 1,500 salmon on August in arranging and coordinating the event. Despite 21 to members with many fish prepared for Elders some trouble with the boat we were still able to and people with physical limitations. get the fish here. Here are some photos of the event.

September 2020 17 Land Related - Estates Management on Reserve

The Okanagan Indian Band Lands Department receives inquiries on Estate –Land related matters. These include types of rights or interests held by the individual i.e. joint tenants, tenants in common, sole possession etc. The ISC Estates Program has not been devolved to First Nation/Band communities, in addition, the existing Land Programs do not include estates administration funding. If in any of the estate matters the result is a transfer of the property, the executor or administration is responsible for submitting the appropriate documents to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). To provide some further understanding of Lands & Estates, we prepared the following: Why is Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) involved in Estates? The responsibility of ISC Estates Program is to provide assistance in the administration of estates of First Nations/Band member individuals and to enhance the knowledge of estate administration among First Nations/Band and member individuals. Many estates involve interests in reserve lands, such as allotments or Certificates of Possession, and fall under the Minister’s authority as prescribed in the Indian Act. Reserve land interests can only be transferred to people who are members of the First Nation/Band that holds that reserve land. When possession of reserve land from an estate is transferred to any heir or beneficiary, the Minister must approve the transfer(s). Additionally, there are often other important matters to attend to such as the welfare of minor children, the needs of adults with special challenges, and the rights of spouses when matrimonial real property is involved. When does the Indian Act apply to an estate? The Indian Act’s rules on Estates do not apply to everyone. For the Indian Act’s Estate rules to apply, the deceased individual must be a First Nation/Band member who is registered in the Indian Registry pursuant to the Indian Act. The deceased individual must be residing in their home, located on reserve, at the time of their death.

In the context of the Indian Act sections 42-52, an estate is all of the assets you own when you die, including land and buildings, bank accounts, earnings, personal property, pensions, insurance settlements after all your debts are paid. It’s what you leave behind, however grand or humble. In other words: Estate = Assets - Debts

The rules also apply to people who live on-reserve, but are away for a period of time to go to school, for seasonal employment, or who had to leave to go into a care facility off-reserve. For First Nation/Band members individuals with Indian status who live off-reserve and do not have an interest in reserve land, their estates are subject to the estate laws of the province where they are residing and their assets are located.

For individuals with Indian Status who live off-reserve but who have an interest in land on reserve, please contact the BC Re- gion Indigenous Services Canada office to determine if there will be any follow-up necessary. In most cases, any transfer of property must be approved by the Minister.

Estates can get complicated and Okanagan Indian Band members are encouraged to write a Will and name an administrator for their estate so that their wishes are carried out after their death.

18 Senk’lip Why have a Will? Having a Will is arguably one of the most important things you do for yourself and your family. Not only can a Will legally pro- tect your spouse, children, and assets, it can also spell out exactly how you would like matters handled after you have passed on. Here are six (6) good reasons for having a Will: 1. You decide how your estate will be distributed. 2. You decide who will take care of your minor children and dependent adults. 3. You decide who will wind up the affairs of your estate. 4. You can make bequests and donations. 5. To avoid legal challenges. 6. Because tomorrow is not promised. ISC’s authority, is provided for in sections 42 to 52 of the Indian Act, includes the following:

 Approving a Will.  Appointing someone to act as Executor or Administrator of an estate.  Administering an estate when no family member is able or willing to do so.  Declaring a Will to be void in whole or in part (with the Deputy Minister’s approval).

What if a valid Will cannot be found? In the case of Intestacy, i.e., where the deceased dies without a Will, an Administrator is required to be appointed, regardless of the value of the estate. ISC departmental staff will write to the known heirs, and outline the options available to them. ISC ap- plies the provisions of Section 48 of the Indian Act. IF there is a surviving spouse or common law partner, the estate is distributed to consider the intestacy provisions of the Indian Act and/or Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act (FHRMIRA). FMRMIRA deals with Matrimonial Real Property (MRP) and includes provisions to ensure increased protection for surviving spouses and common-law partners with respect to MRP interests or rights on reserves. Visit www.coemrp.ca for more details. If there is no survivor spouse, then the estate is distributed equally to the surviving children. However, if you die intestate and there are no heirs, assets other than land goes to the Crown.

Note: On Intestacy, in accordance with the Indian Act, reserve land cannot be inherited when there are only heirs more remote than brothers or sisters.

Once an Administrator has been appointed, or if ISC acts as Executor or Administrator, they will need to determine whether or not the deceased held reserve land and how it was held. Further it must be determined if the deceased held off-reserve lands and interests. The Administrator may request help in determining whether or note the deceased held reserve land how the land was held, i.e. as the sole owner, in a joint tenancy, or in a tenancy in common. A search must be made of the appropriate land registry maintained by ISC. Contact our office for an Evidence of Title Search.

September 2020 19 Estate Transfer of On-Reserve Land If there is to be a transfer of reserve land from the deceased (must be to a member of the same First Nation/Band), a Re- quest for Transfer of Land by Executor/Administrator form must be completed at this point and sent to ISC, and registered in the appropriate land registry maintained by ISC. OKIB Lands can assist in the preparation of the required transfer documents if necessary. If at the date of death, an heir is not entitled to inherit the reserve land, then that share must be sold and the sale proceeds paid to the heir in accordance with Section 50 of the Indian Act. The sale of the reserve land must also be approved by the Minister of ISC. If the heir chooses to either give up that interest in favour of the remaining heirs or to release and assign the share to a member of the band, then a sale is unnecessary. Section 50 provides that:

 The right of the land that has been gifted to a non-member shall be sold by the “superintendent” to the highest bidder among those entitled to reside on that reserve and the proceeds shall go to the devisee or descendant.  Unsold interest in lands revert to the band.  No sale is final until approved by the Minister. When possession of reserve land from an estate is transferred to an heir or beneficiary, it must be approved by the Minister upon section 49 of the Indian Act (except for First Nations participating in the First Nations Land Management Act). Estates that may require special expertise may include some of the following elements:  An operative business that may have employees  Significant off-reserve assets, such as homes in a neighbouring municipality.  There is existing litigation against the estate.  There is litigation or a request for compensation involving government.  There is litigation required to recover money owed to the deceased. It follows that to administer such an estate, professional assistance or the intervention of a court may be required.

Seek the advice of professional help where that expertise is required, such as from: Lawyers, accountants, surveyors.

Helpful Resources:

 Writing your own Will: a Guide for First Nations People Living on Reserve: https://www.afoabc.org/wp-content/ uploads/2015/03/will-kit.pdf  Estate Services for First Nations: https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1100100032357/1581866877231  Understanding Estates Management On Reserve: https://www.coemrp.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/ Understanding-Estates-Management-Booklet.pdf  Centre of Excellence For Matrimonial Real Property: www.coemrp.ca  Indian Estates Regulations: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/C.R.C.,_c._954/index.html  Administrating an Indian Act Estate: General Information for Administrators: https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/ eng/1476815262545/1581869354739 Contact ISC BC Region Estates Program: 1-604-506-6759 to speak with the Sr. Estates Officer. For further assistance, contact the OKIB Lands Department at 250-542-3444.

20 Senk’lip OKIB Housing Needs Assessment survey for 1 bedroom units is online now

Public Works and Housing has launched a survey designed specifically for members interested in renting 1 bedroom units (singles or couples without children). Our goal with the survey is to gather up-to-date information on the number of members who are seeking 1 bedroom rental units now and in the future. Due to the pandemic, many people who are in recovery are finding their in-person meetings You can take the survey now by following this link: cancelled. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/T6KTVQS or you can scan the QR code below with your smart Please don’t allow cancelled meetings stop you phone. from enjoying the gifts of recovery. If you have questions, please email martina. You can attend online video meetings at [email protected]. intherooms.com. Here you can find any meeting that you can think of from NA to the Thursday night Wellbriety meetings.

Safe re-opening procedures at OKIB facilities OKIB offices are now open and you can reach us at these numbers. Please call ahead. We will do our best to help you over the phone if we can or to arrange your visit. Information on identifying Band Office: 250.542.4328 and controlling bedbugs Health Department: 250.542-5094 Social Development: 250.558.3706 Due to recent reports of bedbugs in the area, OKIB wishes to direct people to the HealthlinkBC Public Works/Lands: 250.542.3444 fact sheet, which contains information on how TSD: 250.542.7132 to identify and control bedbugs: https://www. Language & Culture: 250.503.5593 healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/bed-bugs Wellness Centre: 250.558.3957

September 2020 21 Construction project updates at Pebble Park...

Pebble Park Lots 11, 12 and 13 – Homes have been craned and secured to the foundations. The building envelope has been sealed at the mate lines, the roof has been tilted into place and the exterior finishing is well under way. Work is also happening on the inside including drywall and flooring. Electrical, water and propane services has been trenched to the homes. General grading and landscaping tasks have been completed to allow for the building of stairs, decks and carports. We are currently working on a fencing and landscaping plan with more information to come soon. Pebble Park Lots 6, 7 and 8 - – 2 homes are staged in the field. Septic is complete. The mate wall foundations have been framed in. The Crane will start placing homes onto foundations on August 20th. After that it will take approximately 6 weeks to complete exterior/interior finishing and remaining site works. We are currently working on a fencing and landscaping plan with more information to come soon. Arbor Deconstruction – The Deconstruction is complete. All salvage materials have been placed nearby (posts, beams, connections with plates, roof sections, bleachers etc.) Salvaged materials will be used in the rebuild whenever possible. The existing stage roof section has been repurposed as a on site staining station. Arbor Reconstruction – Site works have begun including pad and concrete preps, foundation pier re work, berm grading and beam pocket preps. Site works will continue for the next 3 weeks. Once the pier rework is complete and surveyed, Sperlich can proceed with the next step of the design-build process and begin picking specific posts for specific pier locations etc. Targeted completion date is mid to end of November 2020.

22 Senk’lip ...and the Cultural Arbor Watch a time lapse video of the arbor deconstruction: https://youtu.be/sVDDHXY3ZLA Watch a TikTok about the history of the arbor: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJhM1Rbr/

September 2020 23 New Lifeguard app helps prevent overdoses App has recently prevented overdoses in the Okanagan

There is a new app for people who use drugs authorities have been working closely with alone that sends a message to emergency Lifeguard Health during the past two years to test responders if an overdose does occur. and pilot the app in controlled environments. The app is activated by the user before they take “BC Ambulance paramedics and their firefighter their dose. After 50 seconds the app will sound an first responder partners are often first on the alarm. If the user doesn’t hit a button to stop the scene when people overdose alone, and they see alarm, indicating they are fine, the alarm grows the devastating impact, so that’s why we said an louder. After 75 seconds a text-to-voice call will enthusiastic yes to testing out this app during the go straight to 9-1-1, past two years,” alerting emergency said project lead medical dispatchers Neil Lilley. of a potential overdose. People who use drugs are Knowing that the encouraged to use majority of people with a friend and who use drugs use to use overdose alone in shelters, prevention services hotels, or at home, and supervised in addition to consumption sites the challenges of where they are physical distancing, available. the Lifeguard App is a new and innovative approach that can directly link people to The Lifeguard App can be downloaded at both the emergency responders if an overdose does occur. App Store and Google Play. The Lifeguard App is now being added to the list of essential health and social sector interventions as part of the Overdose Emergency Response COVID-19 symptom self- Centre’s comprehensive response to the sustained and widespread overdose activity in BC. The app assessment tools will be launched in regional health authorities in a The BC Government has a COVID-19 support app phased approach between now and early June. and self-assessment tool. The app will let you This is a tool that specifically supports those who receive the latest updates, trusted resources, are most at risk of overdose death – people who and alerts. The self-assessment tool is built in. use alone. Download on the App Store of Google Play. PHSA, BC Emergency Health Services, Vancouver If you do not want to download the app version Coastal Health, the Overdose Emergency you can access the web version at https:// Response Centre and other regional health bc.thrive.health/covid19/en.

24 Senk’lip It's easy to attend a Band Council meeting

Okanagan Indian Band Members can join the weekly meeting of Chief and Council and the monthly Band Membership Forums using Zoom. It’s easy. We have set up a direct link to the Chief and Council meetings on our website. Go to www.OKIB.ca and click the Zoom logo to join

Or you can dial-in. Call +1 438 809 7799 | Meeting ID: 297 575 494 Agendas available on the website at https://okib.ca/about-us/chief-council

Upcoming Band Council meetings

September October Tuesday, September 8, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, October 5, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, September 14, 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, October 13, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, September 21, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, October 19, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, September 28, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, October 26, 9 a.m. to noon

September 2020 25 Okanagan Nation Alliance Upcoming Events

A New Standard of Care for Alcohol Use Disorder Presentation August 18th, 2020 - GoToMeeting This presentation by Dr. Jeff Harries will discuss a new standard of care for alcohol use disorder; how it was developed and the barriers to its use. It will also cover screening, and new strategies for alcohol withdrawal. Community is the Medicine Workshop August 19th- 21st, 2020 - GoToMeeting This workshop with Dr. Thira will discuss the cultural foundations of community support and wellness teams. The group will look at community engagement methods and strategies, team building, and how to develop successful and sustainable programs. Purple Ribbon Campaign August 24th-28th, 2020 - Online/Social Media This social media campaign is intended to bring awareness to the overdose crisis and those suffering with substance abuse problems in their lives. Syilx Well-Being: Nation Drug Forum 2020 August 31st, 2020 - GoTo Meeting This annual forum will be virtual this year and will bring together speakers from the Nation and those working within wellness and health to about substance issues. This event is intended to bring helpful resources to community members. Okanagan Nation Salmon Feast 2020 September 18th - 20th, 2020 - sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ (Okanagan Falls) The Salmon Feast honours the sacredness of the river at sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ (Okanagan Falls), which is a culturally significant site for our people, and an important traditional fishing camp, gathering place and trading site. The Salmon Feast will be different this year due to COVID-19 and the agenda will be determined soon. Designated Representative Training September 29th - 30th, 2020 - GoToMeeting This training is for band support workers and grandmothers and other community members. There will be discussion surrounding introduction of child, family and community service act, roles and responsibilities, support services and more. River Restoration Workshop October 6th - 7th, 2020 - Penticton Lakeside Resort and Conference Centre Two days workshop showcasing multiple fish passage and salmon habitat restoration works implemented, by the ONA in collaboration with other project partners, in the river mainstem and tributaries. Four Food Chiefs Gathering October 26th - 30th, 2020 - GoToMeeting This event involves the Wellness department, Natural Resources and Fisheries to bring workshops and information to community members. Each department will be leading workshops throughout the event. Children's First Forum November 5th, 2020 - TBD The Children First Forum is an annual forum to increase awareness and understanding about planning for our children and families at the Nation, Provincial and Federal level. This includes the development of the Syilx Family Declaration, any new or existing legislation, and opportunities as they arise. Captikwl Forum December 7th - 11th, 2020 - TBD The Stories Forum will be held for feedback and community engagement in examining Syilx Captikwl on the Syilx Way of Living. How lessons from the Captikwl connects with our modern way of living. As well as how to integrate Syilx values and principles within Captikwl and the utilization of stories in Syilx Policy and Planning.

Note: Due to COVID-19, several ONA events are taking place virtually and many of our annual events may look different this year to ensure the safety and protection of all. Any events in person will follow strict COVID-19 protocols.

For more information contact: Check out our Facebook Taylor Carpenter, Events Planner page to learn more about E: [email protected] upcoming events! www.okanagannation.com

26 Senk’lip 2020 Salmon Harvest at Middle Shuswap River

The salmon fishery is open to members of the When you catch a Chinook salmon follow the Lower Similkameen Indian Band, Okanagan instructions below: Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian band, Penticton Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band, Upper Check to see if the adipose fin is missing. The Similkameen Indian Band and the Westbank First adipose fin is a small fin on the salmon’s back, just Nation. ahead of its tail. If this fin is missing, the salmon may have a microscopic coded wire tag in its nose Fraser River Chinook are available for harvest carrying information about the origin of the fish. between Mable Lake and the Shuswap Falls. If the adipose fin is missing: This year the ONA fisheries department expects 1. Remove the salmon’s head and put it in a a lower number of fish returning to the Middle plastic bag. Shuswap river. A small FSC fishery for Nation members will be open. The fishery is anticipated 2. Use a pencil to write catch information on to begin near July 31 and continue to mid- a label and attach to the bag. Include the October. date, place of capture, gear type and, if possible, the sex and length of the salmon. Information needed to assist with the 3. Freeze the head as soon as possible. management of the fishery 4. Submit the head by contacting Howie After you go out fishing please contact Howie Wright for further instructions. Wright, ONA ([email protected]) to let him know the following regarding your fishing trip. We’re Note: Any heads that are not properly bagged looking for information and labelled will not such as date(s) fished, be accepted, as this start and end time provides information of fishing, number of to a specific fish. Heads lines in the water, gear that are starting to used (snagging is not deteriorate or starting recommended), fish to smell will not be kept, fish lost, other accepted as well. fish kept/lost, number The purpose of the head of people in your party, recovery program is and any additional so that the Okanagan information you want to Nation Alliance Fisheries share. Research Program can Chinook Head Recovery Program learn more about Chinook stocks. For more information on this initiative please contact Howie The 0kanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) Fisheries Wright, Fisheries Program Manager, 250-707-0095 Research Team is asking for your help in learning ext. 105 or [email protected] more about Chinook Stocks. Participants in the Chinook head recovery This program seeks to gather information on program will be entered to win a fishing rod Chinook salmon caught in middle Shuswap River, drawn in October. including Mable Lake and up to Shuswap Falls.

September 2020 27 Income Assistance Issue Dates OKIB Department Phone for 2020 Numbers • Sept 24 (for Oct) You can contact OKIB departments at these numbers: • Oct 26 (for Nov) • Band Administration - 250-542-4328 • Nov 24 (for Dec) • Community Services & Development • Dec 16 (for Jan 2021) 250-542-5094 Questions? Contact: • Education - 250-542-5094 Jennifer Jack • Lands - 250-542-3444 OKIB Social Development Worker • Public Works & Housing - 250-542-3444 Phone 236-599-0023 • Territorial Stewardship Department Email [email protected] 250-542-7132 Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you have any questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 and you would like to speak to an OKIB nurse please call 250-241- 7595. A nurse is available Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Agreement # 40015968

28 Senk’lip